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Mak Urged to Strengthen GMD for Effective Policy Implementation

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 Participants at a highly interactive two-day monitoring and evaluation workshop held on 29th and 30th April 2021 have urged Makerere University to prioritise the recruitment of more technical staff under the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) as a guarantee of effective implementation of the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH) and the Gender Equality Policy.

The evaluation session revealed that the staffing levels at GMD were very low in comparison to the magnitude of work, which entails the implementation of PRASH, the Gender Equality Policy as well as other critical roles and responsibilities. The participants learnt that although the GMD staff structure provided for a number of technical staff, many of these positions remained vacant. It was therefore imperative for the University leadership to evaluate the staffing levels versus the expectations from each Office, pay attention to the workload for each staff, and provide financial resources and equipment/tools required for each office to achieve its targets.

Associate Prof. Noeline Nakasujja, Head of the Department of Psychiatry-Mak College of Health Sciences

The participants also emphasized the need to institutionalise monitoring and evaluation systems at Makerere University.  “An office should be established and empowered with staff to perform the task of monitoring and evaluation of University systems, processes, policies, operations, programs and projects. This is vital if we are to remain on track. With monitoring and evaluation, one is able to detect early what is not working and reasons for such a scenario and identify whether the required finances, staff, equipment and other variables were provided. This would hold leaders and staff accountable.”

According to the participants, an independent and professional monitoring and evaluation function/office would ensure value for money and effective utilization of resources, guide management and staff to quickly establish what is not working and above all, improve the performance of institutional projects, policies and operations.

The recommendations were informed by free flow of ideas premised on presentations on PRASH by Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, Director GMD, Associate Prof. Noeline Nakasujja, Head of the Department of Psychiatry-Mak College of Health Sciences (CHS), Dr. Gertrude Sebunya Muwanga an expert in Monitoring and Evaluation, and Prof. Moses Kamya-Mak CHS among other facilitators. 

Dr. Gertrude Sebunya Muwanga (R) facilitating at one of the sessions during the two-day training.

Focusing on the program goal that seeks to strengthen the institutional capacity of Makerere University to implement and evaluate the policy strategies on sexual misconduct and harassment, the monitoring and evaluation workshop brought on board staff and students to critique PRASH.  The event was courtesy of a grant received by the Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, CHS in collaboration with the University of Washington at St. Louis from the National Institute of Health Fogarty International Centre.

In line with the best practices that necessitate a thorough understanding of the subject under critique, the organisers provided the essential information materials, experts, programmes and delivery styles to enable each participant gain a deeper understanding of PRASH.  Each participant also received a hard copy of PRASH for reference purposes.

To set the pace, Dr. Mugisha Baine provided an overview of PRASH, taking care to define what constitutes sexual harassment. According to the policy, sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours or unwanted physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature.  The policy is accessible on the Policies Website at this link: https://policies.mak.ac.ug/sites/default/files/policies/Policy-and-Regulations-Against-Sexual-Harassment-2018.pdf

Empowered with the necessary background information, participants pointed out the progress so far, implementation challenges and gaps. Some of the observations and measures include:

  1. Mak’s commitment to zero tolerance to sexual harassment lives on through the steps undertaken in the implementation of PRASH. Participants noted that the PRASH policy was reviewed, stakeholders were consulted during the review process, and the Vice Chancellor appointed the standing Roster of 100 that constitutes a pool of staff who would be called upon to investigate sexual harassment cases. The members of staff constituting the Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100 were inducted, trained and equipped with knowledge and skills in preparation for the task ahead.                
  2. The GMD has conducted a number of sensitization engagements with staff and students through training workshops, dialogues, talks during the freshers’ orientation, and coordination of competitions/campaigns among students aimed at averting sexual harassment and sexual abuse.
  3. The policy is easily accessible on the Mak Policies Website. Hard copies of the same are in print in a light and friendly booklet format freely distributed to members of staff and students.
  4. GMD has deliberately engaged Mak Management and other key university units such as the School of Law, Directorate of Legal Affairs, School of Women and Gender Studies, Mak Public Relations Office, Mak Students’ leadership in PRASH awareness activities/programmes/campaigns.
  5. GMD has reached out to several partners and stakeholders such as the; UN Women, Embassy of Sweden, The Spotlight Initiative among others, to eliminate violence against women and girls.
  6. GMD in partnership with the Public Relations Office has engaged the media in the coverage of PRASH awareness and sensitization drives/programmes.
  7. Reported cases of sexual harassment have been investigated, and the culprits suspended and/or dismissed in line with PRASH and other laws governing the country.
  8. Messages have been shared encouraging students and staff to take be bold and report sexual harassment cases.
  9. Sensitization and training workshops have emphasized the PRASH position on the need for leaders to report and act on all complaints of sexual harassment.  ‘According to PRASH, any person in authority who receives a complaint of sexual harassment and fails to take any pro-active step to progress the matter in a timely and appropriate manner commits an offence and shall be subject to disciplinary action.”

During the workshop, the participants noted some challenges in the implementation of PRASH. These include; limited funding to the GMD, low staffing levels at the Directorate and lack of representation of GMD staff at the respective Colleges, which affect the implementation of PRASH and the Gender Equality Policy.  Due to limited funding, the Directorate is not able to sustain sensitization activities. Some of the participants revealed that a number of victims still fear to report sexual harassment cases.

Providing the way forward, participants underscored the need to recruit more staff that are technical and provide the required financial resources for GMD to effectively undertake its mandate. They highlighted the need to intensify sensitization to staff and students as well as implored GMD to come up with strategies for the Vice Chancellor’s Roster of 100 to help coordinate activities and programmes at the College level.

Dr. Euzobia Baine Mugisha – Director, Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming(GMD) giving an overview of the PRASH, key policy implementation procedures, challenges and gaps.

On 30th April 2021, the facilitators equipped participants with knowledge on monitoring and evaluation (M&E) including understanding of key terms such as M& E system, plan and framework. At the end of this session, the participants stressed the need to institutionalise monitoring and evaluation systems at Makerere University. 

Wrapping up the plenary session, Prof. Moses Kamya reiterated the need for all members of staff to undergo training in gender issues and sexual harassment.

Closing the workshop, Associate Prof. Nakasujja applauded the participants for dedicating time to participate in the training, evaluating the PRASH and providing valuable input that will strengthen the institutional capacity of Makerere University to implement and evaluate the same. In the same spirit, she commended the project staff for their commitment towards the successful delivery of the training workshop.

Article by: Mak Public Relations Office

Elias Tuhereze

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Makerere University Strengthens Academic Leadership Through Capacity Building for Heads of Department

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Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

In a strategic move to enhance academic leadership and institutional efficiency, Makerere University conducted a comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) on August 5, 2025. The workshop, held at the Senate Conference Hall, brought together HoDs from various academic units to deepen their understanding of university academic policies, graduate training guidelines, and intellectual property management.

The training was organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs. The session aimed at aligning departmental leadership with the University’s strategic goals, policies, and operational frameworks, particularly in relation to graduate education and research governance.

Opening the workshop, Prof. Buyinza Bukadasi, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), underscored the importance of strong departmental leadership in driving the University’s vision:

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks. Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi makes his remarks.

“The Head of Department is not merely an administrator; they are the academic engine of their unit. By equipping our HoDs with up-to-date policy knowledge, research management skills, and leadership tools, we are investing in the core structures that sustain academic excellence and innovation at Makerere.”

Emphasis on Graduate Policy and Structured PhD Training

Dr. Julius Kikooma, Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT), led an engaging presentation on the Makerere University Graduate Policies, Guidelines, and Procedures. His session unpacked critical updates in the revised 2024 Graduate Handbook, including:

  • Removal of provisional admission for PhD by Research.
  • A structured PhD framework requiring a minimum of three years and 40 credit units.
  • Strengthened supervision standards and doctoral mentorship structures.
  • Cohort-based admissions to improve program coherence and tracking.
  • Integration of cross-cutting courses such as Scholarly Writing, Advanced Research Methods, and Teaching Assistantship into PhD training.

The new framework, supported by the Research Information Management System (RIMS), enhances monitoring of student progress and ensures timely completion of graduate programs. Dr. Kikooma emphasized the importance of departmental roles in guiding and supporting students, noting that departments serve as the primary disciplinary homes for graduate students and are key in fostering research cultures.

A section of HoDs listens to the DVCAA make his address. Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of HoDs listens to the DVCAA make his address.

Understanding and Applying Intellectual Property Policies

The session also featured a detailed presentation on the Makerere University Intellectual Property Management Policy (2008, as amended), delivered by Counsel Esther Kabinga, Ag. Manager of the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO). Participants were guided through the obligations and rights related to IP created by staff, students, and visitors.

The presentation highlighted:

  • Ownership structures for IP generated at the University.
  • Procedures for disclosing, protecting, and commercializing IP.
  • Roles of departments in supporting creators and liaising with IPMO.
  • Revenue-sharing mechanisms and the inclusion of IP outputs in staff promotion criteria.

Counsel Kabinga encouraged HoDs to promote awareness of IP rights and responsibilities within their units, especially given the increasing volume of research outputs and innovations emerging from the University.

Strategic Alignment with the University’s Research Agenda

The workshop is part of broader efforts to implement the Makerere University Research Agenda 2025/26 – 2029/30, which prioritizes talent development, research visibility, and knowledge transfer. According to Dr. Robert Wamala, Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP), strengthening administrative and academic capacity at departmental level is critical for sustaining Makerere’s status as a leading research institution.

Dr. Robert Wamala makes his presentation. Comprehensive capacity-building and retooling workshop for all Heads of Department (HoDs) organized under the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVCAA) August 5, 2025, Senate Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Robert Wamala makes his presentation.

The Research Agenda also supports the operationalization of structures like the IP Management Committee and GAMSU (Grants Administration and Support Unit), both of which are instrumental in streamlining research support services.

The training reaffirmed Makerere University‘s commitment to continuous professional development and the strategic empowerment of academic leaders. With a renewed understanding of policies and tools, Heads of Department are now better equipped to foster academic excellence, supervise graduate research, and steward innovation at the departmental level.

Mak Editor

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Admission Lists -Successful Appeals 2025/26

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International Admissions at makerere university

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released the admission lists for candidates for those whose appeals have been successful for the 2025/26 Academic Year.

Kindly follow the links below to access the lists respectively:-

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UNDP and Mak Launch Daycare Centre and Multimedia Studio to Boost Gender Equality and Digital Inclusion

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Standing before Banners) are joined by officials in a group photo in the Daycare Centre, located on the Ground Floor of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) on 7th August 2025. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Uganda, has launched two transformative facilities, a Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), and a state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility. These facilities mark a major milestone in the University’s commitment to gender equality, student and staff welfare, and digital innovation in higher education.

A Milestone for Gender Equality: Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre

Mr. Ian King, the Ag. Resident Representative, UNDP Uganda, speaking at launch of the Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre emphasized the importance of the Gender Equality Seal (GES) initiative, funded by the European Union (EU). He applauded the Institute for being the first in Africa to participate in the GES.

Mr. King highlighted the role of the facility to mothers and some fathers in ensuring children’s safety and peace of mind for parents. He further commended the Institute for demonstrating what can be achieved through the programme. He stressed the importance of setting high standards for child care centres and making spaces safe for young parents. The Daycare centre is intended to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and relief for mothers and fathers to focus on their work and studies.

A view of the general play and lounge area of the Daycare Centre. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A view of the general play and lounge area of the Daycare Centre.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor, noted that the centre will be crucial in supporting breastfeeding mothers—particularly students and staff—to continue their academic and professional pursuits. Recalling a time when women were barely represented in the University Senate, he acknowledged the significant strides Makerere has made, while also noting ongoing gaps in graduate gender equity.

“The majority of graduates are women, but there are still issues of equity at the graduate level. I think there are still issues that we must solve, and one of them is helping mothers who are students and members of staff to continue with what they do, even when they have got babies to look after because that’s one of the reasons, I think, why many students drop out just because they become mothers,” he added.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe holds a baby as he makes his remarks at the Daycare facility. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe holds a baby as he makes his remarks at the Daycare facility.

He acknowledged that the facility will come in handy for addressing challenges, including balancing motherhood with academic or professional responsibilities. He extended appreciation to UNDP for their long-standing partnership in transforming Makerere into a more inclusive and modern academic institution.

The Head of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), Prof. Sarah Ssali, in her remarks, thanked the Vice Chancellor who catered for the Daycare Centre while designing the building. Prof. Ssali highlighted that the Daycare describes Makerere University‘s history and its commitment to gender equality and inclusion. She highlighted that the University has over 20 gender policies and interventions—with some directly impacting gender equality and others improving the work ecosystem—for example, digitization, quality assurance programmes and scholarship programmes. “But this is the first that directly addresses the needs of both students and staff—mothers and fathers alike—through a shared space for child care,” she said.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right) welcomes officials to the Institute of Gender and Development Studies. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right) welcomes officials to the Institute of Gender and Development Studies.

Ms. Donna Keirungi, a mother and alumna of the University, shared her personal journey on how challenging it is to balance both studying and childcare. She highlighted that the Daycare Centre aims to make the various policies on gender equality and women’s empowerment practical, and to support the University’s commitment to Gender Equality. The Centre aims to fulfil the University’s Strategic Plan 2020–2030’s emphasis on creating an enabling environment and work-life balance.

“The journey to establish the centre began in 2022 with support from the UNDP, including benchmarking at a well-established Daycare Centre in Parliament. The centre is open to children aged zero to five years, including those of students and staff members,” she highlighted.

Ms. Donna Keirungi leads officials on a tour of the Daycare Centre. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Donna Keirungi leads officials on a tour of the Daycare Centre.

The Daycare Centre is unique in that it benefits all members of the University community, including single fathers and students.

H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, the 91st Guild President, thanked UNDP and the organising committee for their efforts in making the facility a reality, describing it as a testament to the University’s commitment to gender equity, student welfare, and removing barriers for parenting students. He highlighted the importance of peace of mind for students, especially mothers, and how the facility will help them balance their roles.

Advancing Digital Transformation: New Multimedia Studio Launched

In a separate but equally impactful launch at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Mr. Ian King described the studio as a strategic milestone in the University’s vision to modernise higher education and foster flexible learning. Mr. King noted that Uganda has made significant progress in digital inclusion with over 13 million internet users. He emphasized that the facility aims to address gaps in digital skills access—with only 3% of the population currently benefiting—and promote digital inclusion in line with the pillars of the Digital Economy Scorecard.

Mr. Ian King makes his remarks prior to launching the Multimedia Studio. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Ian King makes his remarks prior to launching the Multimedia Studio.

He also expressed confidence that the next Digital Economy Scorecard will show improved figures due to the efforts of Makerere and other universities. The digital studio will provide a dedicated space equipped with modern infrastructure to facilitate equitable access to digital skills development. He encouraged full utilization of the studio to maximise its impact on teaching, learning and skills development. He further thanked the Makerere University Management and development partners for their financial contributions that enabled the studio’s realization.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed gratitude to the UNDP for their long-time support, especially with facilities like the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak UniPod). He thanked the UNDP for contributing to the modernisation of the University. The Vice Chancellor pledged to use the facility to build capacity across all disciplines and provide knowledge to a wider audience online.

Left to Right: Prof. Sarah Ssali, Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and Ms. Annet Mpabalungi Wakabi in the Multimedia Studio. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Sarah Ssali, Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and Ms. Annet Mpabalungi Wakabi in the Multimedia Studio.

He noted that Africa’s enrolment in higher education is the lowest in the world despite having the fastest-growing population, emphasizing the importance of providing high-quality education to as many people as possible, both on-campus and online. “I’m happy that this facility looks even more diverse than ones I have seen,” he said, expressing his gratitude to UNDP. The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the impact of the UNDP’s support towards unleashing talent and fostering innovation among students. “So by bringing the UniPod, you helped us unlock so much talent, and these students can now come up with the innovations which can be commercialised and create jobs for our fast-growing populations,” said Prof. Nawangwe.

Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, the Director, Makerere University Institute of Open Distance and e-Learning (IODel), said that the studio brings a significant leap in content production for e-learning. He expressed gratitude to UNDP for providing the necessary equipment to compete with world-class universities. He highlighted that e-learning courses are now incorporating multimedia elements like video and sound, moving on from the text-based model.

Officials pose for a group photo shortly after the launch of the Multimedia Studio. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Officials pose for a group photo shortly after the launch of the Multimedia Studio.

He further mentioned the preference of the younger generation for visual and interactive content, making multimedia content essential for effective teaching and learning. Prof. Muyinda explained how the new multimedia studio will allow for more authentic and context-specific e-learning content, enhancing student engagement. He emphasized that the University is focusing on four key areas: training staff on studio usage, AI literacy, online facilitation, and teaching learners how to use e-learning technology. He underscored the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in e-learning to keep up with global standards.

Dr. Godfrey Mayende revealed that all science units can also be taught in this Multimedia Studio. He said that the studio provides the naturalness of a class setting as it gives space for students to physically sit in the studio room as the lecturer is teaching or recording a lecture.

Dr. Godfrey Mayende observes as Mr. Ian King tests the Multimedia Studio's provisions that support teaching of subjects that necessitate writing of formulae and other hand-drawn illustrations. Makerere University, in collaboration with UNDP Uganda launch of Daycare and Breastfeeding Centre at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) and state-of-the-art Multimedia Studio at the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, 7th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Godfrey Mayende observes as Mr. Ian King tests the Multimedia Studio’s provisions that support teaching of subjects that necessitate writing of formulae and other hand-drawn illustrations.

The two facilities; Daycare Centre and Multimedia Studio, are the latest in a series of initiatives borne out of the strong partnership between Makerere University and the United Nations Development Programme, including the previously launched Mak UniPod and Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions. The abovementioned developments offer clear demonstration that Makerere University and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have a strong partnership focused on fostering innovation and development in Uganda and beyond.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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